A standard 40ft shipping container is approximately 12.19 m long, 2.44 m wide and 2.59 m high externally. A 40ft high cube has the same footprint but is approximately 2.90 m high, giving you more headroom and loading volume.
40ft standard vs 40ft high cube
The main difference is height. A high cube adds 305 mm of external height compared with a standard 40ft container. Both formats are 40 feet long and 8 feet wide externally.
SAME FOOTPRINT. EXTRA HEIGHT.
Which 40ft format fits your cargo?
↔ 12.19 m long · ↕ 2.59 m high · 2.44 m wide
↔ 12.19 m long · ↕ 2.90 m high · 2.44 m wide
Illustrative side views with rounded external dimensions. The orange band highlights the extra height. Width is not shown.
40ft shipping container dimensions
Compare the external footprint with the space available inside. Measurements below are examples from Alconet’s published 40ft A-quality container and 40ft high cube container specifications.
| Measurement | 40ft standard | 40ft high cube |
|---|---|---|
| External length | 12.192 m | 12.192 m |
| External width | 2.438 m | 2.438 m |
| External height | 2.591 m | 2.896 m |
| Internal length | 12.032 m | 12.032 m |
| Internal width | 2.345 m | 2.352 m |
| Internal height | 2.385 m | 2.698 m |
| Internal volume (approx.) | 67.3 m³ | 76.4 m³ |
Which 40ft container should you choose?
Choose a standard 40ft
A practical option for dry cargo or storage when your goods fit within the standard internal height. Check cargo dimensions, door clearance and weight before making your choice.
Choose a 40ft high cube
Extra headroom for taller or bulky goods without increasing the external length or width. More volume does not automatically mean a higher permitted cargo weight.
Need temperature control? See our reefer containers. To compare with smaller formats, use our complete shipping container dimensions guide.
40ft container weight and payload
Tare is the empty container weight. Payload is the permitted cargo weight. Maximum gross weight includes the container and its cargo.
| Measurement | 40ft standard | 40ft high cube |
|---|---|---|
| Tare (empty weight) | 3,620 kg | 3,820 kg |
| Maximum gross weight | 30,480 kg | 30,480 kg |
| Maximum payload | 26,860 kg | 26,660 kg |
For these examples, a high cube offers more internal volume but a slightly lower payload because the empty container weighs more. Check the individual container’s markings and the limits applicable to your transport route.
Read more about container weights or understand the markings on your container.
Will your cargo fit?
- Measure the packaged goods. Include pallets, protective packaging and any parts that protrude.
- Check the door opening. An item can fit within the interior dimensions and still be too large to pass through the doors. Request the available unit’s door measurements.
- Allow room for loading and delivery. Consider handling equipment, door movement, site access and suitable ground conditions.
Internal cubic capacity is a volume figure, rather than a guarantee that a particular load will fit. Share the dimensions and weight of your cargo with our team if you need help selecting a container.
Explore 40ft shipping containers
View the standard and high cube options below, or browse our 40ft container range. Ask about current availability, condition, delivery and any modifications you require.
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View container40FT Shipping container A-quality
This 40ft sea container is of A-quality and is suitable for the storage or transport of different types of goods. The container can be modified… -
View container40FT Shipping container High Cube
What is a 40FT high cube container? High cube containers are about 30 centimeters higher than regular shipping containers and are therefore called high cube…
40ft container dimensions FAQ
How long is a 40ft shipping container in metres?
The external length is 12.192 m, usually rounded to 12.19 m. The standard and high cube examples in this guide both have an internal length of 12.032 m.
What is the height of a 40ft high cube?
A 40ft high cube is 2.896 m high externally, compared with 2.591 m for a standard-height container. That is an extra 305 mm, or about one foot.
How many cubic metres does a 40ft container hold?
The examples in this guide offer approximately 67.3 m³ for a standard 40ft and 76.4 m³ for a high cube. Usable space depends on cargo shape, packaging, loading method and weight.
Does a high cube carry more weight?
Not necessarily. In the examples above, both units have the same maximum gross weight. The high cube’s higher tare weight leaves a slightly lower maximum payload.
Can I buy or rent a 40ft container?
Ask Alconet about buying or renting a standard or high cube container. Specify the size, quantity, preferred condition and delivery location so the team can check suitable options.
Request a 40ft container quote
Tell us whether you need a standard 40ft or a 40ft high cube, how many units you need and where they should be delivered.
Not sure which format will fit? Describe your cargo dimensions, weight and intended use in the message field. Include any transport or modification requirements.
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Prefer direct contact? Email Brian Rijkers or call +31 (0)181 254405.